Name: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup butter (at room temperature); 3/4 cup brown sugar (light or dark); 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 and 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 and 1/4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup peeled and finely chopped apple (1/4-inch cubes or smaller); 2 teaspoons lemon juice; 2/3 cup powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons milk; 2 teaspoons maple syrup

Jump to Recipe

If you love cozy flavors wrapped up in a delightful treat, you are absolutely going to adore this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe. These cookies boast a perfect blend of tender oats, warm cinnamon, and juicy apple bits, all kissed with a sweet and silky maple glaze that elevates every bite. Whether it’s a crisp autumn day or you just need a comforting pick-me-up, these cookies bring a homemade touch of seasonal magic that is impossible to resist.

The image shows a close-up view of multiple oatmeal cookies with chunks of apple inside each one. Each cookie has a rough and crumbly texture in light brown color with pale yellow apple pieces embedded on the surface. A thin drizzle of white icing runs unevenly over the top of every cookie, creating a glossy finish. The cookies are clustered together on a silver cooling rack placed over a white marbled surface. The overall look is warm, inviting, and rustic with a focus on the soft texture of the cookies and the shine from the icing. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe is how it uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create complex, heartwarming flavors. Each ingredient has a key role, from the rich butter adding tenderness to the cinnamon and cloves offering a fragrant spice, while fresh apple pieces bring subtle sweetness and moisture.

Butter (1/2 cup, room temperature): Provides richness and a tender crumb to the cookies.
Brown sugar (3/4 cup, light or dark): Adds moisture and a deep caramel sweetness that pairs beautifully with cinnamon.
Large egg (1): Binds the ingredients together and gives structure.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the warm spices and brings depth to the flavor.
All-purpose flour (1 and 1/4 cups): Forms the base of the cookie dough, balancing softness and chewiness.
Old-fashioned rolled oats (1 and 1/4 cups): Adds that classic oatmeal texture and hearty bite everyone loves.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): The star spice that infuses the cookies with cozy warmth.
Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Helps the cookies rise slightly and stay light.
Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle spicy note that complements the cinnamon nicely.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Chopped peeled apple (1 cup): Fresh apples bring juicy bursts and natural sweetness throughout.
Lemon juice (2 teaspoons): Keeps the apples from browning and brightens their flavor.
Powdered sugar (2/3 cup): For a silky-smooth glaze that adds sweetness and shine.
Milk (2 teaspoons): Thins out the glaze to the perfect consistency for drizzling.
Maple syrup (2 teaspoons): The finishing touch that gives the glaze a luscious, earthy sweetness.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. For easy cleanup and perfect baking results, line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even baking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using an electric mixer is the easiest way to achieve a light and fluffy base. Beat the butter and brown sugar on high speed until the mixture is pale and creamy. This is crucial for creating those tender, melt-in-your-mouth cookies. Then, add your egg and vanilla extract, mixing well and scraping down the bowl to combine everything evenly.

Step 3: Mix in Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the flour, oats, cinnamon, baking soda, cloves, and salt over your wet mixture. Switch to low speed and mix gently until the dough is mostly even. You want all those lovely spices and oats distributed without overmixing, which could toughen the cookies.

Step 4: Prepare and Add Apples

Toss your finely chopped apples with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a fresh tang. Gently fold the apple pieces into the dough, ensuring they’re well incorporated but not crushed. This step keeps those juicy little bits that make each cookie special.

Step 5: Shape and Bake

Scoop the dough by heaping tablespoons onto your prepared baking sheets. Leave enough space for spreading and gently press each cookie down just a bit for an even shape. Bake for about 12 to 14 minutes until the tops are set and edges are lightly golden. Let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 6: Make and Drizzle Maple Glaze

The glaze is the crowning glory of this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe. Whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and maple syrup until smooth and creamy. Adjust thickness by adding a little more syrup or powdered sugar as needed. Drizzle over cooled cookies with a spoon and allow the glaze to set without stacking the cookies. This finishing step adds a delightful sweetness and beautiful shine.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

For a charming touch, sprinkle a dusting of cinnamon or finely chopped nuts on top of the maple glaze before it sets. A few thin apple slices or a tiny drizzle of extra maple syrup can make these cookies look irresistible for guests.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of spiced chai, cinnamon coffee, or even a creamy glass of milk. For a brunch option, serve alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or a warm apple cider for that perfect seasonal complement.

Creative Ways to Present

Try stacking the cookies tied with a rustic twine and a sprig of cinnamon sticks for a lovely gift or display. You could also arrange them on a wooden board with fresh apple wedges and a small bowl of maple syrup for dipping to delight your friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. The glaze may soften slightly over time but will still taste amazing.

Freezing

You can freeze the plain baked cookies before glazing by placing them in a single layer on a tray to freeze, then transferring into a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to serve, thaw completely and add the maple glaze fresh for the best experience.

Reheating

If you prefer warm cookies, pop them in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes or microwave briefly. Add fresh glaze after warming to maintain that perfect glossy finish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?

Absolutely! Crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith work wonderfully, but sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp will also add their unique flavor and moisture to the cookies.

Is it okay to substitute the maple syrup in the glaze?

Yes, you can swap maple syrup for honey or agave nectar. Just keep in mind these alternatives may slightly change the taste and consistency of the glaze.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free rolled oats and a gluten-free flour blend. The texture may vary slightly but the flavor remains delicious.

How do I prevent the apples from making the cookie dough too wet?

Make sure to finely chop the apples into very small pieces and toss them in lemon juice before adding. This helps control moisture and keeps the dough from becoming soggy.

Can I skip the glaze if I prefer less sweetness?

Definitely! The cookies are still fantastic on their own with all the warm cinnamon and apple flavors. The glaze is just an extra touch of indulgence if you want to treat yourself.

Final Thoughts

Trying this Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe will warm your kitchen and heart with every batch you bake. It’s a simple yet extraordinary way to bring comfort and joy, perfect for sharing or savoring all by yourself. I can’t wait for you to taste these cookies and make them a beloved staple in your baking lineup.